Why do you want a pet?
o It's quite surprising how many people fail to ask themselves this before they adopt a pet.
o Adopting a pet just because the kids have been begging for a puppy or kitten usually ends up being a big mistake.
o Don't think that you have to adopt because "we are a family, we are supposed to have a pet."
o Don't forget that in many cases a dog or cat may be with you 10, 15, or 20 years. Yes, even 20 years!

Do you have time for a pet?
o Dogs and cats cannot be ignored just because you're tired or busy.
o They require food, water, exercise, care, and companionship every day of every year.
o Many animals end up at shelters because their owner's didn't realize how much time it took to care for them.
o And the misinformed idea that a cat is totally independent and can fend for itself is inaccurate.
o Cats need and require care, love, and companionship just like dogs. They just usually need it in a different way.

Can you afford a pet?
o The costs of pet ownership can be very high. Can you afford the veterinary care?
o Dog licenses, microchips, obedience classes, grooming, toys, food, kitty litter, and other items add up quickly.
o By adopting from a rescue organization your pet will be current on vaccinations and already spayed or neutered. However, adopters are responsible for health care needs for the rest of the pet's life.

Are you prepared to deal with any problems that an animal may cause?
o Fleas, shedding, scratched-up furniture, and housetraining accidents are common problems.
o Unexpected medical emergencies are unfortunate but realistic aspects of pet ownership.
o Puppies and kittens, especially, have a way of getting into things when you least expect it.
o A trip to an emergency vet clinic will set you back $50 or more, just for walking in the door.

Can you have a pet where you live?
o Many renters are not allowed to have pets. If they are, there are usually restrictions.
o Make sure you know what your rental manager requires before you bring a companion animal home.
o A pet deposit can range between $200 and $600 per pet.
o Trying to sneak a pet in is not a good idea and could lead to future trouble, leading up to and including eviction.

Is it a good time for you to adopt a pet?
o If you have kids under five years old you might consider waiting before you adopt a companion animal.
o If your kids are ready, teach them how to handle an animal properly and gently.
o If you're in college or the military you may need to wait until your life stabilizes before adopting a pet.
o If you travel frequently, it may not be the best time to adopt.
o The last thing you want to do is to have to give up your pet because of your lifestyle.

Are your living arrangements suitable for the animal you have in mind?
o Not all small dogs are suited for apartment living. Some require quite a bit of exercise to be calm.
o Many small dogs also tend to bark at any noise, hence the "yappy little dog" complaint.
o On the other hand, some big dogs are very laid back and are content to be a resident couch potato.
o Before you adopt a pet - do your research. Find a pet that is right for your lifestyle by doing your research about the breed.

Who will care for your pet while you're away on vacation?
o Don't assume that your family will automatically take on this task. Many times it's just too much to ask.
o You may need to hire a pet-sitter. Some pets will probably be less stressed by having someone come to them.
o If you have reliable friends or neighbors, maybe you can swap taking care of each others pets while you are away.
o Ask your friends for recommendations on boarding facilities before selecting one.

Will you be a responsible pet owner?
o Having your pet spayed or neutered makes your pet healthier, calmer, and often more obedient.
o Please remember to obey community leash and licensing laws.
o Keep collar and identification tag on your pet at all times. Pets without ID tags are rarely reunited with their owners.
o Of course, being responsible also means giving your pet love, exercise, a healthy diet, shelter, and regular vet care.

Yes, it is a long list of questions to ask yourself. But if you take one quick trip through the local animal shelter, you will understand why answering them before you adopt is so important. This why most rescue organization perform careful, thorough screening of potential adopters. Many homeless shelter animals are puppies and kittens who were victims of irresponsible people who allowed their animals to breed. Some are dogs and cats that are no longer in that "cute" puppy or kitten stage. Most adult animals were turned in by people who didn't think through responsible animal guardianship before they got an animal.

Please, don't become a statistic. Think it through before you adopt an animal. Sharing your life with a companion animal can bring incredible joy, but only if you're willing to make the necessary commitments of love, time, money, and responsibility--for the entire life of the pet.